Arthurian Landmarks: Tintagel Castle

The winter session of The Wordstapas is open for registration. Our first meeting is January 31st. We will be reading The High Deeds of Finn MacCool, by Rosemary Sutcliff, as well as some ancient Irish poetry. An auditing option is available for those who cannot join the live meetings due to commitments or time zone differences. Register here, or contact … Continue reading Arthurian Landmarks: Tintagel Castle

Some Parallels Pertaining to Ravens (and Other Beasts of Battle)

Ravens appear in several places across western mythology.  They are present in folklore, such as the tale of The Seven Ravens, and in Greek myth, where they are associated with Apollo.  Ravens are prominent symbols in Norse and Germanic mythology and in Anglo-Saxon poetry, and J.R.R. Tolkien uses them for similar purposes in The Hobbit. … Continue reading Some Parallels Pertaining to Ravens (and Other Beasts of Battle)

Similarities Between the Dissimilar, or What Happens When You Read Homer and Tolkien at the Same Time

Although J.R.R. Tolkien avoided taking inspiration from classical Greek mythology, there is one aspect of his writing which I cannot help but see as being influenced by Homer.  Never yet in all my reading of mythology have I encountered an epic as vast and complete as the Iliad and the Odyssey. Many mythologies, though extensive … Continue reading Similarities Between the Dissimilar, or What Happens When You Read Homer and Tolkien at the Same Time

Reflections on The Lantern Bearers, by Rosemary Sutcliff

My stack of books has finally dwindled down to a sane degree.  During the fall and spring semesters I usually have a mound of reading material on my bookshelf:  required books for any classes I am taking, philosophical literature I am reading for information, the one novel I am reading for pleasure, as well as … Continue reading Reflections on The Lantern Bearers, by Rosemary Sutcliff